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Drilling Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Martin Marietta Materials

Drill Operator

Woodleaf, NC · On-site

Martin Marietta is seeking a Drill Operator to join our team. The ideal individual will be safety conscious, dependable, and motivated. This individual is responsible for safely and efficiently ...

Florence Copper

Drilling Service Operator

Florence, AZ · On-site

Drilling Services Operator Department: Drilling Reports to: Drilling Superintendent Location: Florence AZ Overview: Reporting to the Drilling Superintendent, the Drilling Services Operator will ...

Florence Copper

Drilling Service Operator

Florence, AZ · On-site

Drilling Services Operator Department: Drilling Reports to: Drilling Superintendent Location : Florence AZ Overview: Reporting to the Drilling Superintendent, the Drilling Services Operator will ...

FindTalent

Directional Drill Operator

Richmond, VA

The ideal candidate will have experience operating directional drilling equipment to install underground utilities efficiently and safely. This role requires attention to detail, adherence to safety ...

24 Seven Talent

Directional Drill Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

The ideal candidate will have experience operating directional drilling equipment to install underground utilities efficiently and safely. This role requires attention to detail, adherence to safety ...

FindTalent

Directional Drill Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

The ideal candidate will have experience operating directional drilling equipment to install underground utilities efficiently and safely. This role requires attention to detail, adherence to safety ...

FindTalent

Directional Drill Operator

Richmond, VA

The ideal candidate will have experience operating directional drilling equipment to install underground utilities efficiently and safely. This role requires attention to detail, adherence to safety ...

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$300 - $400/day

Drill Operator Department: Operations Employment Type: Contract Location: United States - Fort ... Operate Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) machines for underground cable installation;

Utilities One

Drill Operator

FL · On-site

$250 - $300/day

Drill Operator Department: Operations Employment Type: Contract Location: United States - Fort ... Operate Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) machines for underground cable installation;

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Drilling Operator information

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$13

$27

$51

How much do drilling operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling operator in the United States is $27.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $31.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a drilling operator do?

A Drilling Operator is responsible for operating drilling equipment to bore holes into the earth, typically for oil, gas, or mineral extraction. They monitor drilling parameters, adjust equipment settings, and ensure that operations are carried out safely and efficiently. Drilling Operators also inspect and maintain equipment, troubleshoot issues, and follow regulations to protect the environment and workforce. Their role is critical in the energy and mining industries, requiring technical skills and attention to detail.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drilling operator?

To thrive as a Drilling Operator, you need a solid understanding of drilling procedures, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often with additional safety or technical training. Familiarity with drilling rigs, control panels, and industry-specific software such as rig monitoring systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial for maintaining operational efficiency, ensuring safety, and minimizing downtime on drilling sites.

What are the typical challenges a drilling operator faces on the job, and how can they be managed effectively?

Drilling Operators often encounter challenges such as unpredictable subsurface conditions, equipment malfunctions, and strict safety protocols. Managing these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, close attention to safety procedures, and effective communication with the drilling team and supervisors. Staying up-to-date on equipment maintenance and participating in regular safety meetings are key strategies to ensure operations run smoothly and hazards are minimized. Collaboration with geologists, engineers, and other crew members is also essential for adapting to changing conditions and resolving issues promptly.

What is the difference between Drilling Operator vs Well Servicing Operator?

AspectDrilling OperatorWell Servicing Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, technical trainingHigh school diploma, safety certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentOn drilling rigs, outdoor, physically demandingOn well sites, maintenance-focused, outdoor
Industry UsageUsed during drilling operations to operate equipmentUsed during well servicing to maintain and repair wells

Both Drilling Operators and Well Servicing Operators require similar certifications and work in outdoor, physically demanding environments. While Drilling Operators focus on operating drilling equipment during the drilling phase, Well Servicing Operators handle maintenance and repair tasks after the well is drilled. Understanding these roles helps job seekers identify the right career path within the oil and gas industry.

How do I become a drilling operator?

To become a drilling operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training or an apprenticeship in drilling operations. Many employers also require certifications such as OSHA safety training and experience with drilling equipment, and some roles may prefer post-secondary technical education in related fields.

Is drilling a hard job?

Drilling operators often work in physically demanding environments, operating heavy machinery and performing manual tasks that require strength and endurance. The job can involve long shifts, exposure to loud noise, and working in challenging conditions, making it physically and mentally demanding. Proper training, safety protocols, and experience are essential to perform the job effectively and safely.
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What states have the most Drilling Operator jobs?

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Drilling Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drilling Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,917 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Drill Operator

Martin Marietta Materials

Woodleaf, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Martin Marietta Materials rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 135 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

378th of 544 rated manufacturers

Job description

What to expect:

Martin Marietta is seeking a Drill Operator to join our team. The ideal individual will be safety conscious, dependable, and motivated. This individual is responsible for safely and efficiently operating a track mounted Kelly Bar rotary drill using water medium for flush and preparing areas for shots. The Drill operator will perform maintenance on all relevant equipment, to include the drill and pumps, maintain a safe working area, troubleshoot electrical and hydraulic issues, and assist in loading and stemming of blast patterns.

Greensboro District

Greensboro, North Carolina

Hours: 6AM - 6PM, weekends as necessary

A typical day for a(n) Drill Operator may include:

  • Operating a drill and associated equipment within the company guidelines and safety standards
  • Completing day to day activities of drill operations including daily/monthly machine inspections, greasing, drill logs, and replacing bits as needed
  • Performing maintenance on drill and pump system
  • Aiding in loading and stemming of blast patterns
  • Participating in safety inspections, plant safety program, and follows company and MSHA safety rules and regulations
  • Operating other equipment such as loaders and haul trucks in a safe manner as needed.
  • Aiding in the training of co-workers as needed
  • Performing other duties as assigned by supervisor

You may be a good fit if you:

  • Possess a High School Diploma, GED or equivalent experience to perform the responsibilities associated with this position
  • Have experience in hydraulic and electrical systems (preferred)
  • Have experience with Kelly Bar driven drills (preferred)
  • Have experience with electric powered drill (preferred)
  • Have ATF Clearance (a plus)
Employment Type: Full-Time

What Martin Marietta Materials employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Martin Marietta

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Martin Marietta is an American-based company and a leading supplier of building materials - including aggregates, cement, ready mixed concrete and asphalt.

Industry

Coal, metals and minerals mining

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1994

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